Dear SPACE friend,
Free expression is more important than ever. As we’ve seen this year, it’s more fragile too. When we think of the people who are willing to ask questions, celebrate joy, tell truths, foster healing, and connect communities, we think of artists. From its founding 23 years ago, SPACE has supported arts, artists, and ideas. And right now, we need to ask you for sustained support in return.
Make your mark on the year ahead by renewing your SPACE membership or making a year-end donation toward our annual fund goal. From the start, SPACE has been scrappy, resilient, and fiercely independent, making a little go a long way. We may be a bit bigger now, presenting programs we once only dreamed of, but our core ethos remains largely the same: do bold work with care.
SPACE continues to be a place where creativity and community meet, from the hum of crowds after screenings and readings, the inspiration of a gallery visit, or the camaraderie of dancing with neighbors. This year we have been breaking attendance records, booking and granting funds to arts leaders, and making waves nationally with work that grew beyond Maine.
Meanwhile, it’s also been a hard year. And the one ahead has many uncertainties. The cost of keeping the lights on — literally and figuratively — has risen faster than anyone could anticipate. At SPACE, the majority of every ticket goes directly to the artists, one of our core commitments to building a healthy and accessible creative economy. Every dollar we raise through membership is the true way we sustain the great people, vital resources, below-market studios, and historic building that make it all possible.
If you have felt inspired, emboldened, or comforted that SPACE is part of your world, please consider renewing or increasing your membership today. Your gift ensures our little corner of downtown keeps buzzing. Thank you for your continued allyship and support.
With gratitude and determination,
Kelsey Halliday Johnson
Executive Director
Cover image: Lightning Bolt play SPACE on October 20, 2025 (Photo by Shawn Robbins)
